The Raiders would be smart to look at the TE more in the passing game in 2008 with JaMarcus Russell learning on the fly.  22-year Zach Miller proved to be a very solid receiver as a rookie in 2007 and he’s just scratching the surface of his potential.  Miller played in all 16 games for the Raiders last season and he caught 44 passes for 444 yards (10.1 avg) with 3 TD grabs.  Miller will definately have better stats in 2008 for the Raiders.

25-year old John Madsen will be the backup TE this season for the Raiders.  He played in all 16 games for the Raiders last season and he caught 8 passes for 102 yards (12.8 avg) with 1 TD grab.  Madsen might get a few token receptions in 2008 but don’t expect too much from him.  Madsen has now played in 31 games in his NFL career and he has caught 19 passes for 248 yards (13.1 avg) with 2 TD grabs. 

28-year old Tony Stewart will be the #3 TE for the Raiders this season.  He didn’t play last season due to injury.  He is more of a run blocking TE as he is a big guy at 6′5″, 260 pounds.  Stewart has now played in 68 games in his NFL career and he has caught 55 passes for 464 yards (8.6 avg) with 1 TD grab.

PROJECTED GRADE FOR THE 2008 SEASON:  B-